Chargers Defense Leads the Way in Win Over Saints
Rookie cornerback Eric Rogers stole the spotlight with a 43-yard pick-six as the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the New Orleans Saints 27–13 in preseason action at SoFi Stadium.
By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
Rookie cornerback Eric Rogers stole the spotlight with a 43-yard pick-six as the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the New Orleans Saints 27–13 in preseason action at SoFi Stadium.
The Chargers’ defense dominated most of the afternoon, recording a goal-line stand, a strip-sack, and five total sacks. The Saints struggled with discipline, committing seven penalties for 56 yards.
“They just played with a lot of want-to, and I’m thrilled with that,” head coach Jim Harbaugh said. “I love guys that play like they want to be on this team, that they belong here. That’s the way they practice, and that’s the way they play in games. That warms the cockles of the heart.”
Defensive Playmakers Shine
Rookie Jamaree Caldwell sacked Saints quarterback Tyler Shough for a 9-yard loss in the third quarter. Rogers’ interception came in the fourth quarter off Jake Haener, though he left the game with 1:43 remaining due to injury. Harbaugh had no immediate update on his condition.
Caleb Murphy also stood out, sacking Saints starter Spencer Rattler twice in the second quarter.
“It’s what we practice,” Murphy said. “We preach ball disruption, and that’s exactly what you’re seeing on the field.”
Taylor Heinike vs Saints—Eric Thayer photo
Quarterback Rotation Continues
Taylor Heinicke started under center for the Chargers, going 1-of-5 for 8 yards. Trey Lance took most of the snaps, completing 7-of-14 passes for 55 yards while leading the team in rushing with seven carries for 48 yards.
Rookie DJ Uiagalelei, a St. John Bosco product, drew cheers with a 49-yard strike to Dalevon Campbell late in the game.
On the Saints’ side, Rattler’s limited action gave way to Shough, who went 15-of-22 for 165 yards, including a 54-yard touchdown to Mason Tipton. Charlie Smyth’s extra point narrowed the score to 17–10 in the third quarter.
Special Teams and Injuries
Kicker Cameron Dicker was perfect, hitting field goals from 44 and 40 yards.
The Chargers played without several key starters, including quarterback Justin Herbert. Left tackle Rashawn Slater is out for the season after tearing his patella tendon in practice earlier in the week. Running back Najee Harris’ Week 1 status is uncertain as he recovers from an eye injury sustained in a July 4 fireworks mishap. He has been active in practice, walking laps in a helmet with a visor.
Familiar Faces on the Opposing Sideline
Saints head coach Kellen Moore, in his debut, praised his quarterbacks despite some mistakes. Moore served as offensive coordinator for the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles last season and held the same role with the Chargers in 2023.
Former Chargers head coach Brandon Staley returned to SoFi Stadium as the Saints’ defensive coordinator. Staley led the Bolts from 2021–23.
Looking Ahead
The Chargers, the first team to open training camp this year, are playing an extra preseason game after opening with a 34–7 Hall of Fame Game win over Detroit. With a balanced roster and a swarming defense, they appear ready to make noise in the AFC West this season.
